Kaltsiumsulfaati

Kaltsiumsulfaati is the calcium salt of sulfuric acid with the chemical formula CaSO4. It is a white crystalline solid that is sparingly soluble in water. This compound occurs naturally in a variety of mineral forms, most notably as gypsum. Anhydrous calcium sulfate, also known as anhydrite, is formed when gypsum is heated to remove water molecules.

Calcium sulfate has numerous industrial and commercial applications. A significant use is in the construction industry, where gypsum, in its hydrated form, is a key component in plaster of Paris and drywall. When heated, gypsum loses some of its water and can be reformed into a hard solid by adding more water. This property makes it useful for creating molds and as a building material.

In agriculture, calcium sulfate is used as a soil amendment. It helps to improve soil structure, particularly in clay soils, by providing calcium and sulfur, essential nutrients for plant growth. It can also help to de-salt sodic soils, making them more amenable to cultivation.

Furthermore, calcium sulfate serves as a food additive, often designated by the E number E516. It acts as a firming agent, a coagulant, and a nutrient supplement in various food products, including tofu and certain baked goods. It is also used in pharmaceuticals as an excipient in tablets and as a calcium supplement. In dentistry, it can be used in impression materials.